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File photo taken at Nicholas Sheran Park in Lethbridge (Lethbridge News Now)

Service level changes coming to Lethbridge Parks

Jun 23, 2021 | 9:18 AM

LETHBRIDGE, AB – Parks in Lethbridge are set to shift to a new normal this summer.

This season, residents will see an altered level of service than what was provided in summer 2020. Changes that will be implemented for this summer and beyond come as a result of recommendations from the KPMG Fiscal and Operational Performance Review of the City of Lethbridge, initiated by City Council in December 2018 to reduce the overall parks budget by $60,000 per year.

The city says the budget reduction will be achieved by reducing the overall staffing levels, staggering start and end times for seasonal staff and altering service levels.

Parks Manager Dave Ellis stated that, “we are committed to providing the highest level of service possible within our approved budget.”

“We’ve adopted a strategy that ensures park space is healthy and can be enjoyed by residents.”

The following service level changes will come into effect this summer and will be in effect going forward:

  • Dryland mowing in parks and green spaces will continue at 1-2 times per year, down from 3-4 times. Priority will be given to fire breaks, along pathways and fence lines and along roadways where grass may inhibit sightlines for motorists. Some dryland areas, such as large fields and beside roadways where safety is not a concern will be left longer
  • Trimming around trees, posts, and fence lines will be reduced to 1-2 times per season from 3-4 times per season
  • Irrigated turf will be mowed at a more regular frequency and more often than it was in 2020. Irrigation and fertilization will be reduced to slow growth to a maintainable rate. Crews will take a targeted approach to trouble areas as needed
  • Tree planting will return to a normal level by planting about 300 trees, up from 0 last year
  • Sports fields and feature parks such as Henderson Park, Nicholas Sheran Park and Legacy Park will be mowed regularly
  • Flower planting will return to a normal level after being reduced in 2020.
  • Orders for dedication benches will be accepted, but installation may not happen until late in the season
  • Garbage collection and graffiti removal will not be impacted

Residents are encouraged to call 311 if they have any questions or concerns, or would like to submit a parks-related service request.